FACT SHEET

Modified August 26, 2015

Broadband Access and Infrastructure

High-speed Internet access – often referred to as “broadband” – is a set of technologies that, taken together, are recognized as a potential catalyst for global economic and social change. As the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) recently stated, broadband is…

“a foundation for economic growth, job creation, global competitiveness and a better way of life. It is enabling entire new industries and unlocking vast new possibilities for existing ones. It is changing how we educate children, deliver health care, manage energy, ensure public safety, engage government, and access, organize and disseminate knowledge.”1

Broadband’s physical infrastructure includes both traditional cable and fiber-optic “wireline” networks (such as those operated by Comcast and Verizon) and wireless networks, including 3G networks (e.g., Sprint, T-Mobile) and 4G networks (Clear and, in the future, Verizon Wireless and AT&T Wireless). “Broadband access” generally refers to the availability of broadband services, as well as the adoption of those services where available. Increasing the availability and adoption of broadband is an important goal of national communications policy, and in particular the FCC’s National Broadband Plan. There are, however, differing views of the appropriate role of government vs. the private sector in increasing broadband access in the U.S.

The use of universal service funds and other subsidies to address instances of market failure and expand availability of broadband, especially in rural areas, and adoption of broadband by underrepresented groups, such as low-income, disabled, and elderly consumers.

Jacques Cremer of the University of Toulouse writes on the Internet, competition and economic growth.

Nicholas Economides, who teaches at NYU’s Stern School of Business, writes about competition and pricing issues.

Daniel Spulber of the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University writes on broadband competition policy and antitrust.

Tim Wu of the Columbia University School of Law writes about net neutrality and innovation.

Christopher Yoo of the University of Pennsylvania Law School writes on broadband competition and regulation.

“The vigor with which the FCC has pursued allegations of improper network management suggests that the regulatory structure may already be in place to ensure that consumers are both protected and able to enjoy the Internet’s tremendous promise in the future.”, Christopher Yoo, quoted in CED Magazine, “Network Neutrality – Overgovernance in the Digital Age,” 7/31/2010